Moving Out Checklist 2025
Your complete 60-day timeline for moving out smoothly and getting your full security deposit back.
Why a Move-Out Timeline Matters
A well-planned move-out can save you thousands of dollars. Landlords can legally deduct from your security deposit for cleaning, repairs beyond normal wear and tear, and unpaid rent. By following this timeline and documenting everything, you maximize your chances of getting your full deposit back.
60 Days Before Moving Out
Review your lease for notice requirements
Most leases require 30-60 days written notice. Missing this deadline could mean paying an extra month.
Document the current condition of your unit
Take photos and videos of everything, especially any existing damage, to compare with your move-out inspection.
Start decluttering and organizing
Sort belongings into keep, sell, donate, and trash categories. Sell items online or host a garage sale.
Research moving options
Get quotes from multiple moving companies, or rent a truck if doing it yourself. Book early for better rates.
30 Days Before Moving Out
Submit written move-out notice
Send via certified mail or hand-deliver with proof of receipt. Keep a copy for your records.
Schedule utility disconnection/transfer
Contact electric, gas, water, internet, and trash services. Schedule final readings for your move-out date.
Change your address
Update with USPS, banks, employers, subscriptions, and government agencies (DMV, voter registration).
Start deep cleaning
Tackle one room at a time. Focus on areas often overlooked: inside appliances, behind furniture, baseboards.
7 Days Before Moving Out
Complete final packing
Pack an essentials box for the first day at your new place: toiletries, medications, phone chargers, snacks.
Do a final deep clean
Clean oven, refrigerator, bathrooms, carpets, windows, and walls. Consider hiring professional cleaners.
Repair minor damage
Fill nail holes, touch up paint if allowed, replace burned-out bulbs, fix any damage you caused.
Confirm move-out inspection date
Schedule with landlord to walk through together. This protects both parties.
Move-Out Day
Complete final walkthrough with landlord
Go room by room, compare to your move-in checklist, get written agreement on condition.
Take final photos
Document the empty, clean unit with timestamps. Email to yourself for proof of date.
Return all keys and access devices
Get written receipt for key return. Unreturned keys may be deducted from deposit.
Get forwarding address for security deposit
Confirm landlord has your new address. Know your state deadline for deposit return.
Deep Cleaning Checklist
Landlords inspect these areas most carefully. A thorough cleaning can mean the difference between full deposit return and significant deductions.
Kitchen
Oven, fridge, cabinets, countersBathrooms
Toilet, tub, grout, mirrorsFloors
Vacuum, mop, baseboardsWindows
Glass, tracks, blindsLight Fixtures
Dust, replace bulbsClosets
Shelves, rods, floorsMaximize Your Security Deposit Return
Know Your State Laws
Most states require landlords to return deposits within 14-60 days and provide itemized deductions.
Request Pre-Move-Out Inspection
Many states require landlords to offer this, giving you time to fix issues before final inspection.
Document Everything
Your move-in photos prove what damage existed before you. Compare with move-out condition.
Challenge Unfair Deductions
Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted. Small claims court is an option for disputes.
Keep All Receipts
Save receipts for cleaning supplies, professional cleaning, and repairs you made.
Deposit Calculator
Calculate your expected security deposit return based on your state's laws and deductions.
Calculate Deposit ReturnNormal Wear vs Damage
Cannot Deduct (Normal Wear):
- Faded paint from sunlight
- Minor scuffs on floors
- Worn carpet in traffic areas
- Small nail holes
Can Deduct (Damage):
- Large holes in walls
- Pet stains on carpet
- Broken appliances
- Missing fixtures
State Deposit Return Deadlines
States require landlords to return deposits within:
- 14 days: AK, AZ, NE, VT
- 21 days: CA, MA
- 30 days: FL, NY, TX, IL, PA
- 45 days: AL, TN
Need to Create Move-Out Documents?
Generate professional move-out notices, inspection checklists, and deposit demand letters.